Niger authorities unveil plan to split regions for better security against jihadists

The administration led by General Abdourahamane Tiani is advancing a sweeping administrative overhaul in Niger, aimed at bolstering security operations against armed groups. On May 12, 2026, the Ministry of Interior, Public Security, and Territorial Administration unveiled plans to expand the country’s regional structure from eight to nineteen regions, while increasing departments from 63 to 82. The proposal was outlined to members of the Council for National Refoundation by Abdoulkader Hama, Director General of Territorial Administration, aligning with the broader Tiani administration’s refoundation strategy, supported by Interior Minister General Mohamed Toumba.